THERESA May unveiled a fresh push to tackle the plight of mental health in teenagers as thousands of youngsters open their A-level results today.

It came as experts defended tougher tests calling attacks on the more robust exams “opportunistic” amid claims they disadvantage students.

PA:Press Association

Theresa May has unveiled a fresh push to tackle teenage mental health

It’s thought around one in four students will get an A* or A after exam bosses pledged to lower the marks needed to get the top grades.

Ofqual intervened to “protect” pupils from an expected drop in the number of passes – despite Government reforms to drive up standards.

And it follows warnings from the NSPCC and Childline about rising number of pupils seeking help over exam stress.

The PM said mental health issues can have a “devastating” effect on young lives and children as she announced the new awareness course on the flagship national service scheme.

She said: “It is not only the pressures of school and exams, though that is in the front of our minds today, but also self-esteem issues, struggles with home life or friendships, and getting into university or finding a job that can all affect mental well-being.

“We know that early intervention, along with giving young people the confidence to access support, is key – that’s where National Citizen Service plays such a vital role.

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Thousands of teenagers up and down the country will receive their A-level results today

“It helps young people forge friendships across social divides and enhance their confidence and self-esteem.”

The National Citizen Service (NCS) was set up by former PM David Cameron.

Since 2011, more than 300,000 16 and 17-year-olds have taken part in NCS, usually on four-week summer residential courses and community projects.

In 2016, 93,000 people participated in the programme.

Michael Lynas, chief executive of NCS, said: “As our country’s flagship programme for 16-year-olds, we know just how important the issue of mental health is to this age group and we hope this initiative will help the next generation to live healthier and happier lives.”